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AMNA--Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras express his conviction that
despite the difficulties it is going through, Hellenism will emerge from
the crisis stronger and on its own feet, speaking to the press after a
meeting in Athens on Monday with newly-elected Cyprus President Nikos
Anastassiades, who is on an official visit to Greece.

Samaras also stressed the need for a "common European policy on the
exploitation of Greece's and Cyprus' Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) and
the advancement of this specific issues to their EU partners, given that
the two countries' energy reserves are also Europe's energy reserves".

He said:"We discussed Cyprus' EEZ. In the past month major agreements
were signed with companies, which reflect the opportunities opening
up. Naturally, exploitation of the EEZ is an inalienable right of Cyprus".

On the Cyprus issue, Samaras said that whether the opportunity to promote
a solution is exploited following Anastassiades' election will depend
on the Turkish Cypriot side. He noted that no one can disregard the
fact that Cyprus is a member country of the United Nations and that UN
resolutions exist.amna

Samaras said that Hellenism is being sorely tried but «will emerge
stronger, with an enhanced political and geostrategic role", and
predicted that Cyprus' efforts for funding from the European Union will
prove fruitful.

Samaras and Anastassiades exchanged views on the economic crisis and this
week's upcoming European Council, and noted his desire for coordination
of the two governments' actions in the context of the shared views that
characterise them.

He further noted that Greece and Cyprus have a "brotherly relationship",
adding that no one can overlook the fact that Cyprus is Greece's fourth
largest financial partner and that following the crisis in Greece the
Cypriot market offered opportunities to many Greeks.amna

Anastassiades, in turn, thanked Samaras and added that they had a
productive and fruitful discussion, which indicates the determination
of the two sides for even closer cooperation.

He further conveyed the Cypriot people's gratitude for Greece's timeless
support for the salvation of the Cyprus Republic. Through the dialogue,
the bonds will continue and will grow stronger, he said, adding Cyprus'
determination to take measures that will give strength to the country
and enhance the understanding between the two countries.amna

"Hellenism is going through a crisis, but we've gone through worse
and emerged standing tall. The 1974 destruction was converted into a
financial miracle. The prospect is ahead of us. The crisis will comprise
an opportunity to overcome any negative conditions," the Cyprus President
concluded.